JOHN EGAN C80897

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IDENTIFICATION & SITE INFORMATION:

Vessel Name: John Egan
Type: Sidewheel Steamer
Builder: A. Miller
Year Built: 1872
Construction Location: Pembroke, Ontario
Dimensions: Length: 164 feet, Beam: 23 feet, Gross Tonnage: 493
Official Number: 80897 (post-rebuild)
Initial Owner: Union Forwarding Company, Ottawa
Later Owner: Upper Ottawa Towing Company
Primary Function: Passenger and cargo transport, later converted to a towboat
Engine: 32×96 engine by G. Brush, Montreal

VESSEL TYPE DESCRIPTION #

The John Egan was a wooden sidewheel steamer constructed in 1872, primarily serving the route between Des Joachims and Pembroke, Ontario. Initially built for passenger and cargo transport, the vessel was later modified and repurposed as a towboat. The steamer’s sidewheel design, combined with a powerful engine initially intended for the vessel “Dauntless,” made it a significant player in the region’s transportation network during its operational years.

HISTORY #

The John Egan was launched on May 24, 1872, and quickly became a vital link in the transportation chain along the Upper Ottawa River. Owned initially by the Union Forwarding Company, it facilitated the movement of passengers and cargo between key locations, contributing to the economic growth of the region.

In 1880, the John Egan underwent a rebuild that adjusted its dimensions and officially re-registered it under the number 80897. This rebuild was part of its conversion into a towboat, reflecting the evolving needs of the region’s maritime industry. The vessel continued to serve under the ownership of the Upper Ottawa Towing Company from 1886, maintaining its role in regional transportation and towing operations.

FINAL DISPOSITION #

In 1882, the John Egan was severely damaged by fire. Following this, the vessel was repurposed as a floating hotel in Pembroke. However, after the collapse of the Union Forwarding and Railway Company, the John Egan was abandoned, beached, and left to decay. This marked the end of its operational life.

LOCATED BY & DATE #

There is no specific wreck location or salvage operation associated with the John Egan, as it was left to decay onshore after its abandonment.

NOTMARs & ADVISORIES #

Obstructions: No current maritime advisories or obstructions related to the wreck of the John Egan are recorded on navigational charts.
Marking: The site of the John Egan’s final resting place is not marked on current maps, as it was beached and abandoned rather than sunk at sea.

RESOURCES & LINKS #

For further research and historical information on the John Egan, you may consult the following sources:

Conclusion #

The John Egan played a crucial role in the transportation and economic activities along the Upper Ottawa River during the late 19th century. Its transition from a passenger and cargo steamer to a towboat and later a floating hotel reflects the adaptability required in the maritime industry of the time. Although the vessel eventually met a quiet end, its history remains a testament to the vital role such steamers played in regional development.

Keywords:

John Egan

Sidewheel Steamer

Union Forwarding Company

Upper Ottawa Towing Company

Pembroke, Ontario

Great Lakes shipwrecks

Maritime history

Canadian shipbuilding

19th-century transportation